This essay has been adapted from a talk given by Dan Barry on March 12, 2026, as part of the “Roots: Dialogues for the Common Good” series of public conversations cosponsored by Commonweal and Columbia University’s Burke Library at Union Theological Seminary.
The question has been put to me: Why do we suffer?
Ultimately, I think we suffer because we have no other choice in the matter. The only cho...
Analyzing this piece from a skeptical perspective, we see a focus on personal narrative and reflection as a means to explore themes of suffering, compassion, and spiritual growth. The author uses his own experiences and those of others, particularly Clarence and Ivy, to illustrate these ideas. However, the article lacks a systematic exploration of these themes across a broader range of contexts or perspectives.
Steelman: The strongest version of this narrative presents suffering as an opportunit...